Project Lead the Way Program Continues to Expand
and Prepare Students for the Future
In fall 2011, the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Technology (MET) Department at Hortonville High School (HHS) introduced a curriculum called Project Lead the Way (PLTW), which provides rigorous and innovative Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education curricular programs for elementary, middle, and high schools across the U.S.
Since starting PLTW, the department has added additional courses each school year to continue challenging and preparing students for future education and the workforce. A common theme among the courses is offering project-based learning where students engage in group activities to solve problems and challenges.
The newest addition to the PLTW curriculum at HHS is Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM). This course applies principles of robotics and automation to Computer Aided Design (CAD) and builds on computer solid modeling skills developed in Introduction to Engineering Design and Principles of Engineering, the two other PLTW courses offered at HHS. Students also get the opportunity to use Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment to produce actual models of three-dimensional (3D) designs. Examples of projects being done in the class are:
- Programming VEX robots and robotic arms to communicate with one another and create entirely automated processes
- Proto-typing by using a laser cutter and 3D printer to test form, fit and function.
- Using CNC machines to create wooden, non-electric sound amplifier that students will be able to use for their personal communication devices
“Students can really benefit from taking PLTW courses because they get to learn by doing; they are able to see the concept on paper first, and then use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to physically make something work,” explains Mr. Jeff Lebeck, PLTW instructor at HHS. Not only do students get hands-on experience with PLTW, but they gain lifelong skills that can be transferred to post-secondary education or the workforce. In fact, students can receive college credit as the HHS program is accredited through the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE).
One HHS student, Noah Rhodes, who has taken multiple PLTW courses, explains:
“In PLTW, we have the opportunity to explore multiple fields of engineering, from electrical to robotics to structural. This is great because we can find out which field we enjoy the most before going to college. I have decided that I’ll be going to school for computer/electrical engineering because I really liked this in the PLTW courses I’ve taken here at HHS.”
Another PLTW course will be added to the curriculum for the 2014-15 school year, allowing even greater opportunities for HHS students. Engineering Design and Development (EDD), a capstone course, will give students the chance to identify a problem in a business or society and create a solution to that problem. Students from other school districts who have taken this course have even received patents on their designs.
To accommodate everything the Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Department has to offer, an addition onto HHS was approved during the April 2013 referendum. This will give department teachers more space to make better use of their instructional areas and enhance student learning. HHS renovations and additions are expected to be completed for the beginning of the 2014-15 school year.
Mr. Lebeck adds, “We thank the HASD school board and administration for their continued support of the PLTW program. Without this support, we would not be able to provide students all of the great opportunities the PLTW curriculum has to offer.”
For more information on PLTW, contact Mr. Lebeck via email. Don’t forget to ‘Like’ HASD Project Lead the Way on Facebook to see frequent pictures and videos of student learning!
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